The Missouri Public Utility Alliance recently held a three-week long Utility Bootcamp as part of a Utility Workforce Training Program it developed thanks to a grant from the Missouri Department of Economic Development.
The bootcamp began in March 2024 and attracted more than 25 participants looking to join the utility field, the joint action agency said.
“In the world of public utilities, the requirements for safe water, effective wastewater management, and reliable electricity never cease. However, increasing workforce challenges make those goals harder to reach,” MPUA noted.
“In public utilities, safety isn’t just a priority; it’s non-negotiable,” MPUA pointed out.
Therefore, MPUA kicked off the bootcamp with an extensive focus on safety procedures. From the proper handling of equipment to the identification and prevention of potential hazards, participants were equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the high-stakes environment of utility management safely.
Participants earned CPR, First Aid, and Flagger certifications during this training.
The second week of the bootcamp focused on water and wastewater utilities. Participants learned the intricacies of water and wastewater collection, distribution systems, and treatment processes. Hands-on work with pipe fitting and in-depth math practice helped show participants the range of tasks associated with water and wastewater work.
The third and final week of the bootcamp provided participants with a solid foundation in basic electric principles. In addition to gaining knowledge in the classroom setting, participants had the opportunity to put their newfound knowledge into practice through hands-on simulations and field exercises.
“I’ve really enjoyed the hands-on stuff,” said Bootcamp participant Teige Acopolis. “The electrical PowerPoints also had a lot of good information, so I feel like I’ve learned a lot from this.”
Bootcamp participant Gavin Hall said he felt confident he could enter an entry level electric utility job after completing the training. This was in part thanks to the experience he gained navigating the bucket truck and practicing using various heavy machinery on the simulator.
MPUA staff is developing future training opportunities as part of the Workforce Development Training Program.
A day and a half training on Underground Utilities Access and Repair will take place May 30-31 at the MPUA Training Center in Columbia, Mo.
MPUA will also host a Utility Project Management class on July 23 and 24 at the MPUA Office.
